Every kid that grows up in Tuscaloosa, AL develops a certain affinity for BBQ.

I am sort of an exception to this rule because my LOVE for BBQ came after my freshman year at the University of Memphis. Since then, every time I travel, I seek out the local favorites. Last year while vacationing with the fam in Destin I heard of this little BBQ joint down on 98.

I thought (very similarly to you right now) Destin? BBQ? Really? Come on… After a quick trip down the beach, I found myself in what can only be descibed as a roadside shack. It is reminiscent of a glorified high school concession stand with a porch. Knowing something of good BBQ joints, this actually gave me hope. As I pulled into the gravel parking lot, a waft of smoked meat goodness filled the car. This shifted my hope to excitement. The menu isn’t very diverse or gourmet, however what it lacks in diversity it makes up in taste. I had the pulled BBQ pork plate and my companion and I shared some baby back ribs. There are several different sauces to choose from: Hickory, Sweet Carolina, Hot Carolina, White, and a St. Louis style. They have a Brunswick stew that is supposed to be great but comeon…its is all about the meat. The Ribs can be described in one word: GREAT! They are moist and tender and smokey. They fall off the bone but still have that great ribmeat tug to them. They are outstanding!! The pork on the plate and the sandwich is some of the best I’ve ever had.

This might be the reason he’s won the Memphis BBQ fest in several categories. This restaurant was established by someone else and Quito bought it maybe 3 years back a sort of a retirement. Now, Dessert!! His wife hand makes 6-8 banana pudding dishes per day and when they are gone, they are gone. People call ahead to reserve one. They are straight out of your grandmother’s kitchen good. Homemade all the way! During the summer, he makes Memphis Tacos. These are thick corn tortillas that are warmed and filled with shredded pork, BBQ sauce, slaw and a spicy dry rub. Exceptional!

I have travelled all around the states eating BBQ and this is the BEST BBQ AROUND!!!